Description

General aspect and origins - Phoenix canariensis is also known as the Canary island date palm, or simply Canary date palm. It is widely grown in subtropical and Mediterranean areas. This close relative of the date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) is a fast growing ornemental palm. It can reach up to 60 ft (20 m) tall.
Leaves - The Canary date palm is an ornemental palm, with a dense canopy of about a hundred pinate leaves. Each leave may reach up to 15 ft (5 m) long.
Flowers - Inflorescences appear between the leaves. Note that this palm is dioecious. It will thus require both a male and female Canary date palm to obtain viable seeds.
Fruits - Dates from the Canary date palm are not edible, unlike its close relative, Phoenix dactylifera.

Culture

This palm is interesting for the exotic plant enthusiast. Although it is not one of the hardiest palm, it will however withstand brief frosts down to -10°C. It thus can be grown in USDA zones 9a and warmer, and may be tried in most sheltered places of USDA zone 8b.
Soil - These palms require a well-drained ground.

Propagation

This palm is propagated by seeds.
Fresh seeds of Canary date palm sprout relatively quickly : the process takes about 1 to 3 months.

Pests and diseases

One major enemy of the Canary date palm (and of many palms) is Paysandisia archon, a butterfly which can be a major threat to palms in Southern Europe and other places in the world.